What is SPF, and how does it help protect your skin?

Everything you need to know about SPF and sunscreen protection but didn’t know whom to ask.

Ask any dermatologist about the secret to youthful and healthy skin – we can guarantee their answer will be – to wear sunscreen daily. Whether you follow a three-step skincare regimen or a ten-step skincare regime – good sunscreen needs to become the holy grail of your skincare. 

Premature ageing, dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles – are all caused by exposure to UV rays from the sun. But a good sunscreen with the proper SPF is what you need to protect yourself against any lasting damage to your skin, making it a non-negotiable in your skincare routine. 

But what is SPF?

Today, the market has various options for sunscreen, which brings to the many questions you might have before investing in one: Should you use a mineral-based or chemical formulation? Gel or cream format? SPF30 or SPF50?

We have put together answers to all your questions to help you make the right decision:

What are the different types of sunscreen?

There are mainly two types of formulations: Chemical Sunscreen and Mineral Sunscreen.

Mineral sunscreens are typically formulated with two key active ingredients: zinc and titanium oxide. They work by reflecting the UV rays off the surface of your screen before it penetrates your skin. Mineral sunscreens are milder and better suited for you if you have acne-prone or sensitive skin. 

The downside: mineral sunscreens can have a thicker consistency, and some formulations can leave a white cast.

Chemical sunscreens are formulated with carbon-based compounds called UV filters that absorb the UV rays and transform them into heat that gets absorbed into the skin. Chemical sunscreen formulas, unlike mineral sunscreens, are lighter and have a sheer finish. 

The cons are they are unsuitable for oily or acne-prone skin and may irritate eyes.

What is SPF, and what does SPF stand for?

To understand SPF and its importance, you first need to know that there are two types of UV Rays: UVA and UVB. 

SPF refers to the Sun Protection Factor and its effectiveness in protecting skin from UVB rays. The higher the SPF, the more effective your sunscreen is.

Formulations are available in SPF 15, SPF 30, SPF 50 and SPF 100. SPF provides protection only against UVB rays and not UVA rays. 

Formulas that protect against UVA rays are indicated on the packaging called ‘UVA’ in a circle. Recipes that offer UVA and UVB protection are called broad-spectrum sunscreens and provide complete protection against UVA and UVB rays.

What does the SPF Number mean?

The number against SPF is the SPF rating, which indicates the level of protection it can offer you. The higher the rating is on the sunscreen, the better protection it can offer. 

SPF protects your skin only against UVB rays. SPF 15 formula is the most basic level and provides 93 per cent protection against UVB rays.

Formulations with SPF 30 and SPF 50 are the most common formulas that provide 97 per cent protection and 98 per cent protection against UVB rays, respectively. SPF 100, the highest-rated formula, provides 99 per cent protection against UVB rays.

The efficacy of a sunscreen formula to provide UVA protection is measured by stars – 0 to 5. You should pick a formula that offers a minimum 4-star rating for UVA protection.

A broad-spectrum sunscreen will ensure you are covered in sun protection from UVA and UVB rays.

Should you wear sunscreen daily?

The short answer is yes. The long answer: yes, every single day. Even if you are in a rush, do not forget the sunscreen – trust us, you will thank us later. If this doesn’t convince you – sunscreen is cheaper than cosmetic treatments to treat sun damage.

How often should you apply sunscreen?

Ideally, apply your sunscreen at least 30 minutes before stepping out in the sun, and it should be reapplied every two hours for maximum results. You must reapply more frequently if you are out swimming or in the sea.

For those of us who need to be reminded about reapplication, err or the side of a more potent broad-spectrum formula like an SPF 50 with a minimum 4-star UVA protection.

Do you need to apply sunscreen in winter and the monsoon?

Yes, you need to apply sunscreen through all the seasons of the year. Rain or shine, there can be no compromise on your sunscreen. Just because you can’t see the sun shining bright doesn’t mean that your skin is not getting exposed to the UV rays. In fact, in snowy areas, 80% of the sun rays get reflected by snowy surfaces and cause UV damage to your skin.

How much sunscreen should you apply?

Sunscreen should be applied to every part of your body that is likely to be exposed to the UV rays from the sun. To cover the whole body, six to eight teaspoons of sunscreen is the recommended amount. It might get messy trying to measure your sunscreen with teaspoons. Instead, you can follow the two-finger rule. Use two finger-length lines of sunscreen for every part of your body individually. 

There is no such thing as over-application of sunscreen – so apply generously to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy!

When it comes to sunscreen, there are plenty of choices today – from strengths to formulations. However, the best sunscreen that will provide maximum protection is the one you will remember to apply daily.